Crossbody bags, however trendy they may be, are incredibly practical. Ideally, a crossbody bag comes with compartmentalized pockets within — even if it’s just a simple nylon or mesh divider. This way you can toss your keys and an iPhone, for example, into the same bag without the latter getting scratched. It’s smart to be sure the bag zips shut, too. Sure, a velcro-closing one might look cool and feel a bit easier to open, but you shouldn’t worry about whether something’s secretly fallen out.
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Best Overall Crossbody Bag: Moment Fanny Sling
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Best Upgrade Crossbody Bag: 1733 Side Pack 7L
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Best Affordable Crossbody Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Bag Large
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Best Crossbody Bag with Interior Organization: Bellroy Sling
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Best Throwback Crossbody Bag: The North Face Field Bag
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Best Minimalist Crossbody Bag: Everlane The ReNew Transit Bag
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Best Technical Crossbody Bag: Topo Designs Mountain Sling Bag
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Best EDC Crossbody Bag: Mystery Ranch Full Moon Hip Pack
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Best Cheap Crossbody Bag: Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag
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Best Small-Batch Crossbody Bag: Billykirk No. 605 Waxed Canvas Crossbody
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Best Athletic Crossbody Bag: Janji Multipass Sling Bag
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Best Heritage-Inspired Crossbody Bag: Tanner Goods Canyon Crossbody Pack
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Best Hybrid Crossbody Bag: Herschel Heritage Shoulder Bag
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Best Simple Crossbody Bag: State Bags Lenox Bike Bag
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Best Small Crossbody Bag: Eastpak Springer Powr Waistpack
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Best California-Made Crossbody Bag: Joshu+Vela Etna Sling
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Best Designed Crossbody Bag: AER Day Sling 3 Max
Crossbody bags, by design, shouldn’t be capable of carrying a small load of groceries home — just your wallet, keys, phone, headphones, camera and maybe a water bottle. That being said, there’s no real set formula for these types of bags. Pick what works best for you.
How We Tested
Gear Patrol
We test and use crossbody bags regularly at Gear Patrol. They accompany us on bicycle rides, subway commutes, trips to the grocery store and walks with dogs, among other things. Some are more suited to specific activities and we’ve noted that below.
To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.
